We are going to look at a series of trials with homeopathy and malaria.

Malaria is a highly pravalent diesease in tropical countries. Malaria is contracted by mosquitio bites. People with malaria often experience fever, chills, and flu-like
illness. Left untreated, they may develop severe complications and die.
Each year 350-500 million cases of malaria occur worldwide, and over
one million people die, most of them young children in sub-Saharan
Africa.

First Trial - Homeopathic neem preparation in Tanzania

Objective

In the first trial, a homeopathic neem preparation is being used to prevent an outbreak of malaria.

Trial

152 patients, 79 children and 73 adults, were in the trial.

Subjects reported a decrease in Malaria. More adults reported progress than children which could be due to children not taking the medication properly.

Conclusion

From this trial we conclude that the researched homeopathic neem drops are effective and can be safely used up to 6 months when a drug holiday of a week is observed after every 2-3 months of treatment.

The results from this study show that homeopathic neem reduces instances of malaria outbreaks. This effect was observed in both adults and children after 6 months of preventative treatment. More research is needed to clarify the durability of this preventative effect in the long term.

Issues wth the trial

Some problems with these trials is the malaria is extremely easy to misidentify. No doctor was there to clinically confirm that no malaria was present. A placebo effect may have biased the results towards the positive. Researcher bias may also play a factor with in this study. This “study” had no control group with which to compare the effects of homeopathic neem leaves.

Trial 2 -Malaria and Homeopathic Remedies in GhanaAn Open Study and a Double-blind Randomized Clinical Trial

TrialThe patients that exhibit signs of Malaria such as high fever, chills, and other conditions were treated with the following homeopathic remedies and few others homeopathic medicines that are not listed.

Each treatment was individualized for the patients. 92 patients were tested. 17 patients did not return for a follow up treatment. 68 out of the 75 showed improvements. 2 groups were treated, one with homeopathic remedies and a chloroquine placebo. The other group with a homeopathic placebo and chloroquine.

Conclusions

The results of the study show that the homeopathic remedies do have an effect on treatment of malaria which is significant and slighly better than chloroquine. Also, individualized homeopathic medicine seem to show a significant effect on Malaria.

Issues with the Trial

Larger trials with more test verification should be done in the future. This initial trial is very small and it can not be used as a recommendation for homeopathic treatment of Malaria until some larger trials are done.

Belladonna is given in small amounts for over the counter flu and cough
medicines. It is also used in prescription drugs for Irritable Bowel
Syndrome, acute enterocolitis and as an adjunctive therapy in the
treatment of duodenal ulcers. Eye doctors also use this drug in small
amounts to dilate pupils.

Hanhemann
proved this remedy in 1799 and used it to treat scarlett fever.
Belladonna is used to treat conditions with a sudden onset. The type
of conditions Belladonna treatments are similar to the symptoms if
someone is poisoned with Belladonna. Belladonna poisoning results in
people getting a high fever, sore throat or loss of voice, nausea,
delirium, muscle spasms, flushed skin and dilated pupils. Homeopathic
Belladonna is used to treat these type of conditions in a person.

In part 1 of our series, we found that when looking at the best trials, Homeopathy performed better than a placebo on a 2 to 1 scale. However, all these trials were before 1991. We are now going to look at more modern trials.

The most recent homeopathic trials include a trial done by A Swiss-UK review of 110 trials found no convincing evidence the treatment worked any better than a placebo. However, there seems to be many problems with this type of trial.

We are going to examine the better done trials since 1991. We will not examine all of them but look at a fair amount of promising and not so promising evidence of properly conducted homeopathic trials.

Homeopathy Trials and Information Below:

Trials when comparing Homeopathy to A Placebo

A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled
trial of 242 participants aged 18 to 55 years.
Trial compared an oral homeopathic treatment to
placebo in asthmatic people allergic to house dust.
Authors found the homeopathic treatment "no better than
placebo." They noted "some differences between the homeopathic
immunotherapy and placebo for which we have no explanation." This was actually an attempt to replicate a successful homeopathic trial with allergies and asthma. No one could explain why the replication was not successful. This trial was much larger than the intial trial that proved successful.

Meta-analysis of six controlled clinical
trials.
Controlled clinical trials indicate that
homeopathic remedies appear to work better than a placebo in
studies of rheumatic syndromes, but there are too few
studies to draw definitive conclusions, and efficacy results are
mixed.

Other successful trials on a smaller scale include perennial allergic rhinitis. The trials showed increased nasal flow as compared to the placebo. This was the fourth replication of this trial. It is noted the trial size was quite small.

In conclusion, more research needs to be done but some Homeopathic remedies are showing promising results in large double blinded placebo studies. Larger studies after 1991 showed approximately a 1 to 1 ratio of successful and unsucessful homeopathic trials. Better quality studies before 1991 showed approximately a 2 to 1 ratio. A couple of the trials have been reproduced in several studies. Oscillococcinum was the only study that we found was reproduced several times by different researches.

Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician disenchanted with these
methods, began to develop a theory based on three principles: the law
of similars, the minimum dose, and the single remedy.

The word homeopathy is derived from the Greek words for like (homoios)
and suffering (pathos). With the law of similars, Hahnemann theorized
that if a large amount of a substance causes certain symptoms in a
healthy person, smaller amounts of the same substance can treat those
symptoms in someone who is ill. The basis of his theory took shape
after a strong dose of the malaria treatment quinine caused his healthy
body to develop symptoms similar to ones caused by the disease. He
continued to test his theory on himself as well as family and friends
with different herbs, minerals and other substances. He called these
experiments "provings."

But, as might be expected, the intensity of the symptoms caused by the
original proving was harrowing. So Hahnemann began decreasing the doses
to see how little of a substance could still produce signs of healing.

With the minimum dose, or law of infinitesimals, Hahnemann believed
that a substance's strength and effectiveness increased the more it was
diluted. Minuscule doses were prepared by repeatedly diluting the
active ingredient by factors of 10. A "6X" preparation (the X is the
Roman numeral for 10) is a 1-to-10 dilution repeated six times, leaving
the active ingredient as one part per million. Essential to the process
of increasing potency while decreasing the actual amount of the active
ingredient is vigorous shaking after each dilution.

Some homeopathic remedies are so dilute, no molecules of the healing
substance remain. Even with sophisticated technology now available,
analytical chemists may find it difficult or impossible to identify any
active ingredient. But the homeopathic belief is that the substance has
left its imprint or a spirit-like essence that stimulates the body to
heal itself.

Critics of homeopathy point out that no way such a dilute medicine could work. People are feeling better because of the placebo effect. Critics also say the research in homeopathy is very unimpressive. Proponents of homeopathy point out to numerous trials that have been successful.

Recent homeopathic trials include a trial done by A Swiss-UK review of 110 trials found no convincing evidence the treatment worked any better than a placebo.However, there seems to be many problems with this type of trial.

The University of Limberg investigators, who are all
epidemiologists, conducted an exhaustive search of the published
medical literature to find evidence of homeopathy's efficacy regardless
of implausibility. They found an astonishing 107 controlled studies.
Many of them compared a homeopathic remedy with a placebo. While some
studies were well designed, the investigators found that the methods
used in the majority left much to be desired. But their findings were
favorable enough toward homeopathy to suggest further evaluation: "Of
the better studies, 15 trials showed positive results whereas in seven
trials no positive effect could be detected (in one trial only
homeopathic treatments were compared with each other)."

They used strict criteria for the selection of the best trials.
Highest marks went to the studies with these characteristics: a large
number of participants, double blinding (neither physicians nor
participants know who is receiving the homeopathic remedy), a placebo
that was described as indistinguished from the homeopathic remedy, and
random assignment of participants to a treatment group.

All in all, the University of Limberg investigators found that number
of published studies to be impressive. "The amount of positive evidence
even among the best studies came as a surprise to us." But they
acknowledged that many questions remain. Chief among them is a
plausible explanation for how homeopathic remedies work.

The article that quoted the homeopathic studies is a 1991 article. All homeopathic trials examined were before 1991. In part 2 of Homepathy: Proven Medicine or A Placebo we will look at more recent trials and guage those results.

Here at Hmedicine.com, we get this question quite a bit. We are going to answer this question in detail now.

Homeopathic single remedies are generally prescribed by homeopathic doctors or physicians. Homeopathic single remedies look to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. The single remedies are prescribed for chronic conditions but maybe used for any other health conditions. People may also self prescribe homeopathic medicines for non serious conditions such as pain, cramps and other conditions. However, this does take some time and research to figure out what homeopathic single remedy do I need. Also, what potency should be required. You may need a homeopath doctor help to figure all of this out.

This is where homeopathic combination remedies come into play. Homeopathic combination remedies such as Hylands Calms Forte put typical homeopathic single remedies and lower potencies into the homeopathic medicine. Calms Forte contains several homeopathic single remedies that are used for sleeping disorders. The homeopathic combination remedies also has a low potency dosage ranging from 3X-30C. The homeopathic combination remedies take the guess work out for the homeopathic customer. The main problem with homeopathic combination remedies is that they are not individualized like single remedies. A person with a sleeping disorder may need a homeopathic medicine that Calms Forte does not contatin. They may also need a higher or lower potency than what Calms Forte has.

I don't understand potency with regard to 6x, 12x, C, M, etc. is what David asked us in our Hmedicine.com forums. We referred him to our single remedies guide but we are going to attempt to answer this question in a little more detail.

The more dilute a homeopathy remedy is, the stronger it is and the higher the number or potency. A less dilute remedy is not as strong and has a lower number or potency.

To answer David's question, a list is below from the least strong homeopathic remedy to the most strong homeoapthic remedy.

Remedies from least strong to most potent

1X would be the least strong remedy.

3X

3C

6X

6C

12X

12C

30X Middle Strength

30C

200C

1M

LM

CM+ Strongest remedy

X verus C - This question often confuses the novice to homeopathy. An "X" potency is a remedy diluted 1 to 9. 1 part remedy to 9 parts alcohol. The "C" potency is 1 go 99, 1 part remedy to 99 parts alcohol. X and C are fairly interchangeable since both have been potenized the same number of times. If you can not find a 6X of a homeopathic remedy, the 6C would be an okay substitute.

Most people treating acute illness should generally start with a 6X potency. If they feel that potency is not strong enough, they may move up to a 12X or 12C. They may also decide to move up to a 30X or 30C for even more strength.

Most chronic complaints should be treated with a licensed homeopathic physician. 200C remedies and upwards should generally not be self prescribed. Homeopathic physicians for chronic compliants may not necessarily prescribe a 200C or higher remedy. Starting with a high potency may overshoot the problem. The homeopath may start the patient on a 6X. The homeopath may move up to the 200C or higher potency if they feel more strength is necessary in treating the chronic condition. 200C, 1M and higher are rarely taken as often as low strength homeopathic remedies.

Motion sickness often needs immediate attention, both to relieve the
person’s misery and to prevent disruption of a trip. Sometimes, as in the case
of sea or air sickness, it is impossible to leave the vehicle—so bringing along
a kit of remedies can be a good idea. (If vomiting is extreme or a person shows
signs of dehydration, a physician should be consulted.)

For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this
section. See also “Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance.”

Argentum nitricum: Indications for this
homeopathic remedy include dizziness, faintness, nausea, retching, and possibly balance or
perception problems. The person may feel claustrophobic or be extremely anxious
and excitable. Eating too much sweet or salty food may have contributed to the
problem.

Arsenicum album: A person who needs this homeopathic remedy is likely to be very
anxious and feel both restless and exhausted. Nausea and vomiting can be
accompanied by burning pain. The sight and smell of food, or odors of any kind,
may make the nausea unbearable. The person may feel a burning sensation in the
throat or stomach and want frequent sips of water.

Borax: Indications for this homeopathic remedy include nausea, gas, and possibly
diarrhea. The person has a fear of any downward motion (as is felt on a plane
or roller coaster) and can be made sick by it. The person may also be very
sensitive to noise, warm temperatures, and cigarette smoke.

Bryonia: A person needing this homeopathic remedy usually wants to stay
completely still and not be talked to or touched. Nausea and vomiting, with
pain and pressure in the stomach, can be worse from even minor movements. The
person may have a dry mouth and want cold drinks.

Cocculus: Indications for this homeopathic remedy include dizziness,
palpitations, headache, numbness, and an empty or hollow feeling in various
parts of the body. The person may talk nervously, yawn, or tremble, and is
likely to feel extremely weak. Problems are often worse after getting cold, and
from not getting enough sleep.

Kali bichromicum: This homeopathic remedy is indicated when vertigo and nausea
are intense, and bright yellow fluid is vomited. The person feels worse from
standing up, and can be very weak. Aching may be felt in facial bones or in
small spots on the head. This remedy is often helpful during seasickness.

Petroleum: A feeling of empty nausea in the stomach, accompaned by
cold sweat and excessive salivation can indicate this remedy. An ache in the
back of the head and neck may be present. Food and warmth may bring some mild
relief.

Sepia: This homeopathic remedy is indicated when the person (often a woman or
child) feels dizzy and irritable, and the nausea is made worse by lying on one
side. A headache will often accompany these problems. The sight of food can
intensify the nausea, although the person may still want sour things.

Tabacum: Indications for this homeopathic remedy include violent nausea and
vomiting with a terrible sinking feeling in the pit of the stomach, pale face,
cold sweat, and icy feet and hands. Some relief may come from breathing cold,
fresh air.

Homeopathy Dosage Directions

Select the homeopathic remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions
where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician,
a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition,
instructions for use are usually printed on the label.

Many homeopathic physicians suggest that homeopathic remedies be used as follows: Take
one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and
let the remedy work. If improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped,
another dose may be taken. The frequency of dosage varies with the condition
and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be required several times an hour;
other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and in some
situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.

If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a
different remedy.

Using Homeopathy with
Professional Guidance

Homeopathic remedies can also be helpful in complex or even serious
conditions—although self-prescribing is not appropriate in such cases. To
correctly select the homeopathic remedy and monitor the healing process, an experienced
physician who is trained in homeopathy should be involved, for the following
reasons:

Medical knowledge is needed
to assess complex or serious conditions. Professional diagnostic tests may
be necessary, as well.

Using a homeopathic remedy that covers
isolated symptoms superficially, but does not fit the person on deeper
levels, may change or suppress the symptoms, yet not be deeply curative.

Even with a correctly-chosen
remedy, a temporary aggravation of symptoms may occur as part of the
healing process. Training and experience are required to distinguish a
helpful aggravation from an intensification of symptoms that occurs
because a remedy has not acted and the illness is progressing.

An inexperienced or impatient
person might be tempted to repeat theh homeopathic remedy unnecessarily, or change to
other remedies at times when waiting is appropriate.

If an illness or condition is chronic or deep-seated, it is best to consult
an experienced homeopathic practitioner, for a “constitutional” remedy that
fits the characteristic symptoms of the case and considers the person’s
physical condition and individual nature in a more comprehensive way. A typical
first visit, a homeopath interviews a patient for at least an hour—to take a
careful history and elicit information about many aspects of the person’s state
of health—before choosing a remedy.

Many parents know all too well the signs of teething in their baby but many feel powerless to help their child's teething problems. However, there is a range of teething remedies for all stages of your baby's teething. Knowing the remedy available and how and when to apply it is the key.

Homeopathic teething remedies are a great way to ease the discomfort of baby teething. Homeopathic remedies have been used for many years and can be highly effective, but you should only use a homeopathic teething remedy in conjunction with expert advice and guidance.

Many parents know all to well the signs of teething in their baby but
many feel powerless to help their child's teething problems. However,
there is a range of teething remedies for all stages of your baby's
teething. Knowing the remedy available and how and when to apply it is
the key.

Homeopathic teething remedies are a great way to ease the
discomfort of baby teething. Homeopathic remedies have been used for
many years and can be highly effective, but you should only use a
homeopathic teething remedy in conjunction with expert advice and
guidance.

Apis mellifica is used to ease swollen gums before and after the
eruption of teeth. Apis mellifica means 'whole honeybee' and was first
discovered by the Rev. Brauns, in Thuringia, Germany, in 1853.

Calcarea carbonica: Some babies are late to teeth and the
experience can be very distressing for late developers. Babies who need
this remedy are usually chubby, slow to learn to crawl or walk and
their heads often sweat during naps or sleep at night.

Essential oil of cloves has long been known as a natural local
anesthetic. You administer the clove oil by adding one drop in one or
two tablespoons of organic sunflower oil.

Kreosotum: This remedy can ease a child's stress when she has
irritating saliva and severe discomfort during teething. Kreosotum is
very beneficial if a baby's teeth succumb to decay soon after erupting
from the gums.

Pulsatilla: especially good for teething babies who are clingy, nervous or tearful.

Sulphur: good if your baby has a reddish irritation or rash on the
chin or diaper area during teething episodes. Diarrhea (often whitish)
is not caused irectly by teething but because of stress from teething.
The baby is irritable and anxious, feeling worse from being warm.

Other Natural Homeopathic teething remedies include a stick of
licorice and chamomilla. As stated above, any parent contemplating
using a homeopathic remedy for teething should do so only in
conjunction with expert medical advice.